Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), Michael Petrov

Programme:

Tchaikovsky
Romeo & Juliet Fantasy Overture

Tchaikovsky
Variations on a Rococo Theme Op.33

Sibelius
Symphony No.2 in D Major Op.43

Sombre strings descend into crashing percussion before giving way to the Romantic, lilting theme of Shakespeare’s play in Tchaikovsky’s ever-popular Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture.

Joining the Orchestra for another of Tchaikovsky’s great masterpieces is cellist Michael Petrov, who performs the elegant and charming Variations on a Rococo Theme. Technically demanding but light-hearted, the cello solos resonate throughout the piece and are considered to be Tchaikovsky’s homage to Mozart.

?Sibelius’ Symphony No.2 evokes the expansive, glacial landscape of his native Finland. From an anguished slow movement to a finale of furious passion, this piece climaxes in a flourish of exhilarating heroism.